I'm going solo to Mazatlan in early December (4-11), and I'm wondering a few things:

1. Anyone else going then / anyone live there?
2. Any advice on good spots to check out, meet people (fellow travelers AND locals), or general info on what it's like during December?
3. Any advice on cheap places to stay? I've found some cheap hotels, but no hostels in the city.

More about me: I'm 24m living in SF, and I plan on relaxing at lot on this trip, but also exploring the old town, and having random adventures off the beaten path. My budget is mainly for lodging, good food and beer - not shopping or organized tours. But I'm open to some tours or day trips if they're endorsed by travel punks!

I know Mazatlan is a big tourist destination, which is cool with me (recently had a blast staying in Puerto Vallarta's south side, avoiding the northern hotel zone). I've traveled quite a bit, from silly tourist traps to camel trekking and camping on the side of the road, so I'm down for all sorts of things.